1.) Be Yourself. People can usually tell when you’re not being real with them.
2.) Maintain good eye contact.
3.) Greet EVERYONE in a friendly, positive upbeat manner — even if others DON’T extend that courtesy to you. (This includes people who say offensive things/gestures.) In time, you may win over your worst critic or others who are watching/listening to what you say and do. (I know it’s happened to me several times.)
4.) Get to know your customers so you can point out specific articles of interest to them in the paper.
5.) If you see something you like — a pet, a hat, sunglasses, an outfit, or even their car — say something. But again, BE YOURSELF! For instance, if you don’t like dogs, don’t pretend that you do, THEY CAN TELL! It’s a great way to start a conversation, and can often lead to a sale.
6.) Write/do artwork for the paper. That way you have more invested than money, and you receive the extra added bonus of getting paid for your work. Your customers will be eager to see/read something YOU personally contributed to the paper and it will increase sales. (Also, if you do write for the paper be sure to carry a few of those with you for people who may have missed you article(s).)
7.) Help others see the real value of the paper by explaining what the paper has done for you personally.
8.) Don’t hesitate to explain the purpose of the paper to those who ask.
9.) Offer your customers other products like bumper stickers. We have two. One says, “I Brake for The Contributor,” and the other says, “I Read The Contributor.”
10.) Protect your investment. Make sure your papers are presentable. Look at your papers, bumper stickers, books etc. Are they in good condition? Would you want to buy one of them?
One final tip: When you’re out selling the paper DO NOT spend all your time when you’re working on your phone or playing games on it. If you ignore your potential customers, they will ignore you too! As with starting any new business, building a customer base takes time. Consistency is key, but if you apply these tips, customers WILL come and sales WILL increase!